Guardian Writer Dave Hill On Politics, People & Goings On

February 11, 2008

Boris, In Islington, On Crime

"Following the tragic death of Martin Dinnegan aged 15, Islington Council set up an independent commission into young people’s safety. The Commission comprises some of the local councillors and independent members drawn from the community and they have been examining evidence from people with expertise in youth justice, gangs, community initiatives and the local police. Tonight at 7pm, Boris Johnson will give evidence to the Commission and set out his five point plan for fighting crime.

Crucial to this process have been the views of young people themselves, and they have two young people serving as commission members. Young people have also contributed to the Commission including some with knowledge of gangs and victims of crime.

Commenting on the event, Boris Johnson said: 'We have to stop the epidemic of knife or gun crime on our streets. We cannot repeat what happened last year where 27 young people were murdered. I believe the role of Mayor is crucial and I'm honoured to be able to set out my plan to fight crime this evening and answer questions from young people.'"